Walt Whitman c. 1885 - 1895

Paul Wayland Bartlett created this bronze medallion, titled *Walt Whitman*, sometime around the turn of the century. The sculpture serves as a potent symbol, capturing the spirit of American poetry through its depiction of Whitman. Considered alongside its historical context, this work embodies complex layers of identity and cultural significance. Whitman, known for his radical views and free verse, challenged conventional poetic forms and societal norms. Bartlett’s sculpture seeks to memorialize this legacy. The choice of bronze, a durable material, further signifies the lasting impact of Whitman’s words. The medallion reflects the intertwined themes of individualism and collective identity that were central to Whitman's poetry. Note how Bartlett captures Whitman’s gaze, inviting viewers into a personal encounter with the poet's persona, while his presentation, hat and beard, speaks to his everyman identity.